LA Design Center

LA Design Center

LA DESIGN CENTERLos Angeles, CA | 2004

Part of a four-phase master plan, this project involved the transformation of two derelict warehouses in South Los Angeles (formerly called South Central) into the first phase of a new showroom district whose purpose is to serve the area’s many furniture manufacturers. The project also includes venues for cultural events. It contributes to the economic renewal of this historically overlooked neighborhood with 20,000 square feet of exterior event space and 80,000 square feet of flexible interior space.

Off-the-shelf materials such as concrete, polycarbonate, cement board, fabric, ordinary lumber, as well as small amounts of stainless steel and zinc sheet metal, were selected for their low cost, ease of construction, industrial nature, and inherent beauty. The building’s interiors were sandblasted to bring back the warmth of the existing wood and masonry structures.

The main exterior space between the two buildings serves as the social center of the project and can be used as an ordinary parking lot, a combination “people-car” space (its most common function), or a large event space. Several events, including the 2005 Los Angeles Chapter AIA Gala, have encouraged many Angelenos to visit a neighborhood they have never been to before.

About jfak

At John Friedman Alice Kimm Architects, we believe in architecture’s power to transform culture and create compelling and meaningful - as well as joyful - places. Our work catalyzes creative interactions, enhances daily life, is sensitive to the environment, and advances positive social change.